Electronics

What is E-Waste?

In today’s fast paced technical world, Electronic Waste – or E-Waste – is the fastest growing portion of the municipal waste stream. For each new product, one or more becomes outdated or obsolete. Consequently, Americans are storing or discarding older electronic products faster than ever. In 1998, studies estimate that about 20 million computers became obsolete in one year. In 2005, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated that 26-37 million computers became obsolete. Along with computers, TVs, VCRs, cell phones, and monitors – an estimated 304 million electronics – were removed from US households, with about two-thirds of those still in working order, according to Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) estimates.

E-Waste means electronic products nearing the end of their “useful life.” Many of these products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled. Often, they contain recyclable components that have value if properly recycled. They also often have hazardous constituents such as lead, mercury and flame retardants that can pose an environmental or health threat if not properly handled.

What To Do

Residents of RRRASOC Member Communities may also bring e-waste to household hazardous waste collection events. Those events provide residents with an opportunity to safely discard or recycle hazardous items, including e-waste. Click here to get a full list of upcoming events.